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said he would love to identify a partner to help provide such a support group and it is something they will continue to explore. In response to a question from Councilmember Baker, Director Berry stated that they have enough funding to cover the Early Childhood Scholarship commitments through the end of this year, but starting in January they may need to have a waitlist for new applicants. He said that the ARPA funding was very helpful this year, but will not be available for next year, so the department is investigating other alternatives to bolster that fund. Councilmember Baker said he is willing to help explore options, as he believes access to quality childcare is an important aspect of affordability. A conversation followed about rebuilding the early childhood care giver network and promoting licensure of in-home daycares to increase access to quality childcare. Councilmember Kepple asked if they have planned for any emergency housing solutions for the coming year, considering Lakewood Community Services Center will be relocating, which means their emergency shelter unit will no longer be available. Director Berry responded that staff works closely with the County and other service providers that can help coordinate emergency housing solutions. He said they also have some money set aside through the Healthy Lakewood Foundation that they can use in the case of dire emergencies. Councilmembers asked additional questions regarding communications, program training budgets, and clarifying budget questions directed at the Finance Department. *** Housing & Building Department Budget Presentation Building Commissioner Parmelee delivered the attached presentation of which the highlights are as follows: Commissioner Parmelee discussed the roles and responsibilities of his department including managing the housing license process for approximately 3,000 rental properties, issuing contractor licenses and registration, plan review, code enforcement, and other duties he described. Commissioner Parmelee presented data on the number and type of property maintenance inspections in 2023 as compared with 2022 and discussed those trends. He noted that the number of point-of-sale inspections, complaint inspections, and exterior inspections decreased in 2023 and the number of property maintenance and safety inspections increased. He remarked on factors potentially influencing these trends. st He noted that a new ordinance adopted by Council will go into effect on January 1 that will require an inspection prior to the issuing of a rental license. Commissioner Parmelee predicted that this ordinance will increase the number of inspections. By close of the year, the department is anticipated to have issued over 2,500 construction permits. Commissioner Parmelee presented data on the number and type of construction permits issued in 2023 as compared with 2022. 4